Commission on the Status of Women 2025 Side Event on Promoting Resilience, Mental Health, and Leadership Among Refugee Women
The side event “Promoting Resilience, Mental Health, and Leadership Among Refugee Women” took place virtually March 20, 2025, at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69). Bringing together global experts, youth leaders, and refugee advocates to spotlight the urgent need for mental health support and leadership opportunities for refugee women and girls. Organized by Aysan Jahankhah, a mental health counselor and social justice advocate from Teachers College, Columbia University, and co-sponsored by the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP) and the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP), the event emphasized integrating mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) into humanitarian responses. Speakers underscored the intersectional challenges faced by displaced women and called for culturally responsive, community-driven solutions. Dr. Judy Kuriansky highlighted the increasing recognition of mental health within global refugee frameworks and UN policies. Freshta Taeb, from the Global Emergency Response and Assistance (GERA), stressed the importance of refugee-led program design and the inclusion of mental health professionals in decision-making spaces. Other panelists discussed how cultivating resilience and leadership among refugee women not only supports healing but also builds stronger, more peaceful communities. The event reinforced that empowering refugee women through mental health support and leadership development is not only a pathway to personal healing but a foundation for more resilient, inclusive, and peaceful societies. Have a look at the event report below, as well as the recording! Event Report
ECOSOC Youth Forum 2025 Side Event on Youth Expertise in Action Mental Health and Decent Work
The ECOSOC Youth Forum 2025 side event took place virtually on April 16 and was co-organized by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace, the Major Group for Children and Youth, and UN Youth Delegates and Representatives from Austria, Italy, Tanzania, Germany, and the USA. It focused on the urgent link between mental health and decent work for youth, aligning SDG 3 and SDG 8. With rising anxiety and instability caused by precarious employment, the event emphasized the need to treat mental health as a public good and workplace safety issue. Youth-led evidence and solutions were presented, including peer support models, leadership training, and policy advocacy. Speakers addressed systemic challenges such as AI bias in hiring and lack of protections for informal workers. Audience polling highlighted instability and burnout as key concerns and called for stronger mental health provisions. The event concluded with recommendations for governments, UN bodies, and employers to prioritize psychosocial protection, expand youth-led programs, and recognize mental health as essential to sustainable livelihoods. Have a look at the event report below, as well as the recording of the event and the keynote video! Event Report
Nagma Shrestna speaking at the UN
On February 5, the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) was honored to be one of six nongovernmental organizations given the opportunity to speak at the United Nations 2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum held at the UN Headquarters in New York. The event focused on advancing global partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals and was attended by over 400 representatives from Member States, international organizations, and civil society. An IAYSP representative from the USA, Ms. Nagma Shrestha, highlighted efforts to empower youth to take action in local communities through initiatives such as the Peace Designer program. This curriculum encourages youth involvement and ownership via designing and implementing self-sponsored, community-service projects. Ms. Shrestha also urged governments and international bodies to invest in youth-led projects that would amplify young voices in helping to shape global policies. One of the key concepts of IAYSP, Hyojeong, is a Korean term meaning “filial heart.” The term was coined by Dr. Hak Ja Han, IAYSP’s founder, and it challenges young leaders to take responsibility for creating a peaceful, sustainable world at the local level through active community involvement. “The honor of IAYSP represented at this UN ECOSOC forum was a significant milestone for us,” said Dr. Koji Matsuda, the IAYSP International President. “We are encouraged and challenged to be a more effective bridge between youth, policymakers, and global institutions such as the UN.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZXcjtFihKI Statement by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) Delivered at the 2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum on February 5, 2025 Excellencies, distinguished delegates, and stakeholders, The International Association of Youth and Students for Peace, or IAYSP, is honored to contribute to the 2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum. As an organization committed to empowering youth through community-driven initiatives and intergenerational partnerships, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing the 2030 Agenda.At IAYSP, we believe that youth are not mere beneficiaries of sustainable development; they are active partners in driving transformative change. Through innovative partnerships, we seek to harness their creativity and determination to address global challenges. IAYSP has partnered with local organizations and educational institutions to organize the Peace Designer Seminar programs, which empower youth to identify community challenges and design practical solutions. These youth-led projects, addressing gender equality and social cohesion, have already benefited hundreds in their communities. This reflects the importance of empowering young people by ensuring their meaningful participation in global processes, fostering opportunities for them to engage in local and global dialogues, and supporting them to lead and implement the solutions that directly impact their lives and communities. Inclusivity and diversity are at the core of effective partnerships. Guided by our interfaith principles, IAYSP has facilitated dialogue among youth from diverse cultural, religious, and social backgrounds. These dialogues empower young leaders to dismantle systemic barriers, champion opportunities for all, and create spaces for equitable participation. A concept central to our efforts is hyojeong, a Korean term that can be interpreted as “heart of devotion.” Introduced by our founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han, it embodies ethical leadership grounded in love, respect, and service. It encourages individuals to take responsibility in building a peaceful and sustainable world by leading with empathy, understanding, and a sense of shared duty. Today, we call on governments, the private sector, and civil society to invest in youth-led initiatives, strengthen intergenerational partnerships, and amplify youth voices in decision-making. Young people expressed hopes for the Summit of the Future and a Pact that safeguards their rights and the world. These voices shaped the Summit outcomes, and now member states must fulfill those commitments for a more inclusive and sustainable future. Thank you.
Beauty Will Save the World – Side Event on the Margins of the UN CSW
On March 11, 2025, the side event Beauty Will Save the World: Advancing the SDGs Through Women and Girls’ Leadership was held at St. Bartholomew’s Church in New York City, organized by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace, Visionary Empowerment, and Women’s Federation for World Peace USA. Ambassador Isaiah Chabala, former Zambian Ambassador to the UN, opened with a call to redefine beauty as a force for empowerment and sustainable development, emphasizing women’s leadership in advancing the SDGs. Kaeleigh Moffitt, President of WFWP USA, expanded on the theme of “beauty with purpose,” urging women leaders—both beauty queens and grassroots advocates—to use their platforms for advocacy in education, sustainability, and peacebuilding. The event featured a panel discussion where beauty queens and activists shared how their work aligns with key SDGs, including gender equality, climate action, and social justice. Panelists highlighted beauty as a vehicle for advocacy, showcasing how pageants and leadership roles can drive meaningful impact. Nagma Shrestha (Nepal) and Siria Ysabel Bohorquez (USA/Italy/Mexico) discussed integrating sustainability and education into global beauty competitions, while Eunmi Rangala Maddox (Kenya/USA) and Simone Doroski (USA) spoke on bridging grassroots activism with global influence. Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer (USA) emphasized interfaith collaboration in advancing gender equality. The event concluded with a call to action, advocating for the integration of SDG commitments into beauty pageant criteria, mentorship programs, and interfaith partnerships. Ultimately, the discussion reinforced that beauty—when aligned with purpose and leadership—can be a powerful catalyst for social change and sustainable development. Click here for the Event Report
2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum – SIDE EVENT
From Margins to Changemakers: Girls Empowered through Leadership Training and Travel Organized by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace & Girls Empowered by Travel – Nepal; co-sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the UN and the Major Group for Children and Youth Event Date: 5 February 5 2025 13:15-14:30 Location: 4 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036 Format: Hybrid, off-site The 2025 ECOSOC Partnership Forum Side Event, From Margins to Changemakers: Girls Empowered through Leadership Training and Travel, highlighted the transformative role of travel-based leadership programs in advancing gender equality, economic empowerment, and sustainable community development. Co-organized by the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) and Girls Empowered by Travel (GET-Nepal), with co-sponsorship from the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the UN and the Major Group for Children and Youth, the event brought together experts and grassroots leaders to discuss the power of community-driven initiatives. Panelists shared real-life examples of how travel and intercultural exchanges equip young women with leadership skills, confidence, and opportunities to create lasting change in their communities, aligning with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The discussion also emphasized the success of the Hitaishi program, a rural-urban skills-sharing initiative engaging over 4,000 community members and fostering women’s empowerment through literacy, leadership training, and sustainable tourism. The event underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in scaling grassroots initiatives and ensuring long-term impact. Representatives from IAYSP, GET-Nepal, and the UN Major Group for Children and Youth emphasized the need for inclusive education, gender-responsive policies, and increased institutional support for young women’s empowerment programs. Speakers also addressed challenges such as community skepticism, sharing strategies for trust-building and local engagement to enhance program sustainability. The session concluded with a call to action, urging governments, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to invest in travel-based leadership programs as a proven model for empowering marginalized girls and fostering sustainable development. Objectives Showcase Innovation: Demonstrate how travel-based leadership programs can serve as powerful tools for education, empowerment, and sustainable community development. Highlight Collaboration: Present the successful partnership between IAYSP and GET-Nepal as a model for creating ripple effects of empowerment through grassroots initiatives. Advance SDGs: Illustrate measurable impacts on SDG 5, SDG 8, and SDG 17 through targeted empowerment strategies for marginalized women and girls. Inspire Action: Encourage multi-stakeholder commitments to support similar programs globally by fostering innovative and inclusive partnerships. Event Concept Note Short Report Long Report About the Organizations The International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth to become agents of positive change. Through educational programs, service projects, and leadership training aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), IAYSP seeks to foster a culture of peace and innovation among young people worldwide. Since achieving ECOSOC Special Consultative Status in 2022, IAYSP has strengthened its efforts to collaborate with the United Nations and other stakeholders, amplifying youth voices in addressing global challenges. One of its flagship programs, Peace Designer, equips participants with the skills to design and implement impactful, community-driven projects, fostering practical solutions to local and global issues. With chapters in over 50 countries, IAYSP bridges cultures, communities, and generations to promote sustainable development and build a peaceful future. Girls Empowered by Travel-Nepal (GET-Nepal) is a youth-led nonprofit organization founded in 2017 that empowers women through travel, leadership, and community engagement. Based in Kathmandu, GET-Nepal provides safe, supportive spaces for women to connect, learn, and lead while contributing to the sustainable development of their communities. Through its flagship initiatives—such as Hitaishi, a rural-urban skills-sharing program, and the Sustainable Tourism Initiative—GET-Nepal connects diverse groups of women to foster intercultural exchange and promote sustainable practices. By combining travel with leadership development, GET-Nepal inspires participants to create transformative change in their personal lives and communities, addressing challenges such as literacy, gender-based violence, and environmental sustainability. As of 2023, over 4,000 individuals benefited from GET-Nepal’s programs, which continue to have a ripple effect in empowering marginalized women and fostering community-driven solutions. GET-Nepal’s motto, “Travel Can Make a Difference,” reflects its commitment to using meaningful travel as a tool for education, empowerment, sustainable change, and creating fun and memorable experiences for youth. Contact Information International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP)Email: [unoffice@iaysp.org]Website: [www.iaysp.org] Girls Empowered by Travel-Nepal (GET-Nepal)Email: [girlsebyt@gmail.com]Website: [https://girlsempoweredbytravel.org/]
Release of the YSP USA and Africa Song Anthem & Dance Challenge
“In Unity We Rise,” the official anthem of YSP, is the result of a meaningful collaboration between YSP USA and YSP Zambia. This vibrant Afro-beats track was written and produced by Charles Bwenge and performed by African Voice, a dynamic musical group composed of talented YSP youth from across Africa. Created to reflect YSP’s mission of inspiring global solidarity and empowering youth, the anthem carries a message of unity and collective action. In celebration of its official release across all major music streaming platforms, YSP USA partnered with Jacob Sarr, a passionate young leader from Ohio, to launch a global dance challenge, inviting youth worldwide to groove together with YSP’s vision for global unity and peace. Check out the song here
Partnership with GET-Nepal – YSP Peace Designer
On December 24, 2024, IAYSP Representative Nagma Shrestha conducted a Peace Designer Workshop at the Girls Empowered by Travel (GET) office in Maru, Basantapur, Nepal, for young women from Sankhuwasabha. The workshop aimed to equip participants with a deeper understanding of peace and practical tools to address community challenges. It began with an introduction to peace, covering the three levels of sustainable peace—inner peace, peace with others, and peace with the environment—while linking these concepts to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through reflection exercises, participants identified their personal strengths, passions, and areas for self-improvement, encouraging them to think critically about their roles in fostering peace. The second session featured an outdoor photography activity at Kathmandu Durbar Square, where each participant received a disposable camera to capture images representing peace, culture, and community. This exercise encouraged creativity, self-expression, and a deeper connection to their surroundings. Since the photos couldn’t be developed in Nepal, Nagma brought the cameras back to the United States, eagerly awaiting the final results. This session allowed participants to see peace from a fresh perspective and express their understanding through visual storytelling. In the final session, participants engaged in community project development, identifying local issues and designing actionable solutions. They mapped out their ideas visually and presented them to the group, receiving constructive feedback to enhance their public speaking skills. This process boosted their confidence and provided them with practical tools to create meaningful change in their communities. The workshop successfully empowered young women with leadership skills, creativity, and a sense of responsibility toward peacebuilding. Special thanks to GET Nepal and YSP USA for their support in making this impactful event possible.
IAYSP speaks at MGCY side event to the CSO-Peacebuilding Dialogue
During the UN’s CSO-Peacebuilding Dialogue, a side event hosted by MGCY on December 13, John Koester delivered a compelling speech representing the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP). The speech focused on IAYSP’s global efforts to empower youth through educational programs like the Peace Designer Training, which equips young people to address community issues using SDG education and design thinking. Notably, the program in the Balkans has led to impactful projects such as youth-led training initiatives supporting women in law enforcement. In the speech, John outlined three key recommendations for connecting local youth-led initiatives to national and international policymaking. First, investing in education and resources is vital to equip youth with the tools and platforms necessary to scale their projects and raise awareness of the SDGs. Second, integrating local voices into policymaking processes ensures that youth perspectives are included in decisions that shape their communities. Lastly, forging collaborative partnerships with governments, universities, and global institutions can amplify the reach and impact of youth networks, ensuring that diverse voices, including those from smaller organizations, are heard in peacebuilding discussions. John’s speech Click here for more photos from the event
Interfaith Outreach and Youth Empowerment at the United Nations
The International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) actively supports interfaith dialogue and cooperation as vital components of peacebuilding. At the United Nations, we work to engage youth from diverse religious and spiritual backgrounds, empowering them to lead with shared values and contribute to a more harmonious world. In October 2024, IAYSP participated in the Spirit of the United Nations Awards hosted by the NGO Committee on Spirituality, Values, and Global Concerns (CSVGC-NY). The event celebrates individuals and organizations who embody the spiritual and ethical principles at the heart of the UN Charter. IAYSP’s presence underscored our commitment to values-driven leadership and the importance of creating space for youth voices within interfaith initiatives. By supporting interfaith outreach, IAYSP seeks to provide young people with opportunities to connect across religious and cultural lines, engage with faith-based organizations, and collaborate on building a peaceful and inclusive global future.
Strengthening Ties with Nepal for Youth Empowerment
On October 23, 2024, Nagma and John met with Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa, Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, to discuss opportunities for collaboration. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to work together in the near future, marking an important step toward expanding youth-focused initiatives. In a separate meeting, the former Nepali Ambassador to the United States expressed strong support for IAYSP’s mission and offered to facilitate the introduction of YSP programs in Nepal. These diplomatic engagements reflect a deepening partnership between IAYSP and Nepali leadership, underscoring a shared commitment to empowering youth as key agents of peace, development, and positive change across borders.